Meetings: Office English episode 2

Summary

This BBC Learning English podcast episode, 'Office English,' focuses on effective communication during meetings. Hosts Phil and Pippa discuss common challenges like nervousness and provide strategies for speaking up confidently. They offer practical phrases for self-introduction, responding to points, and politely disagreeing. The episode also addresses how to handle meetings with many important attendees and emphasizes the importance of an agenda for productive discussions. Cultural differences in communication styles are acknowledged, encouraging listeners to adapt their approach accordingly.

Takeaways

• 🗓️ Meetings are a significant part of the workday and can be both loved and loathed by different individuals.
• 📋 An agenda is essential for meetings to ensure they have a clear purpose and avoid aimless discussions.
• 💭 Some individuals may feel nervous speaking in meetings, especially when they involve a large or unfamiliar group.
• 🎙️ The podcast 'Office English' aims to help improve business English in the workplace, focusing on meetings in this episode.
• 👤 Introducing oneself professionally in a meeting is crucial, especially when attendees are unfamiliar with each other.
• 🔑 When introducing, it's helpful to state one's role or responsibilities rather than just the job title for clarity.
• 💡 Sharing one's expertise during introductions can set the stage for valuable contributions to the meeting.
• 🗣️ If the opportunity arises, using phrases like 'For those who don't know me...' can be a good way to introduce oneself mid-meeting.
• 🔄 Responding to others' points in a meeting with phrases like 'That's a really important point...' can facilitate constructive dialogue.
• 🤔 Polite disagreement in meetings can be expressed using phrases such as 'I like that idea, but my thinking is a bit different...'
• ❓ Asking questions like 'What about...' or 'How about...' is an effective way to enter a conversation or discussion.
• 🚦 In meetings dominated by important figures, waiting for the right moment or politely interrupting with an apology can be necessary to contribute.
• 🙏 Asking for permission to speak, using phrases like 'Could I add a thought?', shows respect for other participants.
• 🌐 Cultural differences in communication styles should be considered, as politeness norms vary across regions.
• 📝 Having a clear agenda and sticking to it helps keep meetings on track and ensures they are productive and time-efficient.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the 'Office English' podcast episode?

The main topic of the episode is about how to speak up in meetings and get your ideas heard in the workplace.

Why do some people feel nervous speaking up in meetings?

Some people feel nervous speaking up in meetings due to a fear of speaking in front of others, especially in larger meetings with unfamiliar people or in meetings with clients or different departments.

What is the importance of having an agenda in meetings?

An agenda is important because it outlines what will be discussed, ensuring the meeting is structured, efficient, and focused on relevant topics.

How can one introduce themselves professionally in a meeting with many unknown attendees?

One can introduce themselves by stating their name and explaining their role or responsibilities, or mentioning their area of expertise, which can help establish their relevance to the meeting.

What is a polite way to disagree with someone's point in a meeting?

A polite way to disagree is to acknowledge the original point by saying something like 'I like that idea, but my thinking is a bit different', which allows for a respectful exchange of differing viewpoints.

How can someone enter a conversation in a meeting if they want to ask a question?

A person can enter the conversation by asking questions in a non-intrusive manner, using phrases like 'What about...' or 'How about...', which invites further discussion on a topic.

What should you do if you need to interrupt a meeting that is moving too quickly to contribute your ideas?

If a meeting is moving too fast, one can wait for a pause or politely interrupt by apologizing and asking if they can add a thought or bring up a topic, showing respect for others while asserting the need to contribute.

How does the script suggest dealing with the stress of speaking in meetings?

The script suggests preparing phrases for introduction and contribution, using polite language to disagree or ask questions, and waiting for the right moment to speak or politely interrupting when necessary.

What is the significance of the 'AOB' item on a meeting agenda?

AOB stands for 'Any Other Business' and is a common item on a meeting agenda, allowing for discussion of additional topics not originally listed, providing flexibility while keeping the meeting organized.

Why is it beneficial to share the agenda before a meeting starts?

Sharing the agenda beforehand allows attendees to prepare their thoughts and contributions in advance, ensuring the meeting is productive and focused on the intended topics.

How can the phrases discussed in the podcast help in making meetings more efficient?

The phrases discussed help in managing the flow of conversation, facilitating participation, and maintaining focus on the agenda, which collectively contribute to more efficient and productive meetings.